- What it is
- A water-based elastomeric acrylic coating that forms a flexible, reflective waterproof skin on roofs.
- Best for
- Refurbishing sound roofs, re-coating ageing systems, metal and concrete roofs, cool roof upgrades.
- Key benefit
- Low-cost protection that also reflects solar heat.
- Performance
- Depends on the specified system, substrate, exposure and manufacturer requirements; designed to be re-coated
- Where we work
- Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah
- Next step
- Free site inspection and a written, itemised quotation
Acrylic waterproofing in Dubai for refurbishment and cool roofs
ESA Technical Services LLC is a Dubai-based technical services company, established in 2006, specialising in GRP works, waterproofing, insulation and installation across the UAE. Acrylic waterproofing in Dubai is the cost-effective option we recommend when a roof is structurally sound and needs renewed protection rather than replacement.
Elastomeric acrylic roof coatings do two jobs. They waterproof the surface with a flexible film, and in white or light colours they reflect a large share of the sun's energy. On a Dubai roof, that means a noticeably cooler surface, less heat flowing into the building, and a membrane that ages more slowly because it runs cooler.
What is acrylic waterproofing?
Acrylic waterproofing is a water-based, elastomeric coating made from acrylic polymers, applied by roller, brush or spray in two or more coats. It cures into a seamless, flexible, UV-resistant film. White and light colours are highly reflective, making it a popular 'cool roof' coating for refurbishing concrete, metal and existing membrane roofs.
Acrylic coatings are best on roofs with good drainage, because prolonged standing water can soften them, and where foot traffic is light. They're designed to be maintained by re-coating: every few years a fresh coat renews protection without removing the old one.
When do you need acrylic waterproofing?
These are the signs and project triggers we see most often on UAE sites:
- Faded or chalky roof coatings. Existing coatings that have worn thin but are still bonded
- Hot top floors. Where a reflective surface would reduce heat gain
- Metal roofs. Warehouse and industrial roofs with sound sheets and fixings
- Budget-conscious refurbishment. Protection now, without full strip-out
- Protecting other systems. As a reflective top coat over compatible membranes
- Planned maintenance. Scheduled re-coats in FM programmes
Our step-by-step acrylic waterproofing process
Roof survey
We check drainage, ponding, cracks, the existing coating's adhesion and the condition of metal sheets or fixings.
Cleaning
The roof is pressure-washed to remove dust, salts, algae and loose coating, then left to dry fully.
Repairs
Cracks are filled, loose areas scraped and patched, and rusty metal treated. Ponding areas are addressed where possible.
Priming
A compatible primer is applied where required by the substrate.
Reinforcing details
Polyester fabric is embedded in acrylic at cracks, joints, upstands, drains and penetrations.
Coats
Two or more full coats are applied at the specified coverage to reach the target dry film thickness, allowing drying time between coats.
Inspection and handover
Coverage, thickness and finish are checked, drains cleared, and a re-coat schedule is provided for FM planning.
Technical specifications
Values below are typical ranges. Final specifications are confirmed per project from drawings, operating conditions and the manufacturer's technical data sheets.
| Parameter | Typical specification |
|---|---|
| Coating type | Water-based elastomeric acrylic |
| Typical dry film thickness | Often ~0.5–1.0 mm total, per system |
| Coats | Primer (if required) + 2 or more finish coats |
| Reflectivity | High in white/light colours (high SRI), per data sheet |
| Reinforcement | Polyester fabric at details and cracks |
| Reference | ASTM D6083 (acrylic roof coatings), manufacturer data |
| Limitations | Not for prolonged ponding or heavy traffic |
Materials and methods
- Elastomeric acrylic coating: white or light colours for reflectivity
- Primers: for concrete, metal and existing coatings as required
- Reinforcing fabric: polyester scrim for cracks and details
- Crack fillers and rust treatment: for preparation
Benefits of acrylic waterproofing
Cooler roof
Reflective coatings lower roof surface temperatures and reduce heat flowing into the building.
Low cost
One of the most economical ways to renew roof protection without strip-out.
Quick application
Minimal disruption; occupied buildings can stay in use.
Water-based
Low odour and solvent-free, suitable for occupied sites.
Easy to maintain
Re-coatable to extend life indefinitely with planned maintenance.
Protects what's under it
Shields older membranes and concrete from UV and heat ageing.
Applications across the UAE
| Sector | Typical application | Why it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Villas | Roof refresh over sound surfaces | Economical and cooler |
| Warehouses & industrial | Metal and concrete roofs | Reflects heat over large areas |
| Schools & offices | Planned roof maintenance | Minimal disruption to occupants |
| FM portfolios | Cyclic roof re-coating programmes | Predictable, low-cost upkeep |
| Labour accommodation | Roofs of blocks and cabins | Cooler interiors at low cost |
Acrylic vs PU for roof refurbishment
| Factor | Acrylic | Liquid PU |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low | Medium–High |
| Durability | Moderate, re-coatable | High |
| Ponding water | Not suitable | Tolerates better |
| Reflectivity | Excellent (white) | Good with reflective top coat |
| Best for | Sound roofs, cool roof upgrades | Leaking or detailed roofs |
Quality control and safety
- Adhesion and drainage checks before quoting
- Surface cleanliness and dryness confirmed
- Detail reinforcement inspected
- Coverage per coat recorded
- Dry film thickness checked
- Work-at-height and roof access safety
Why choose ESA for acrylic waterproofing
- Honest recommendations. We tell you when acrylic is enough, and when it isn't
- Preparation-first. Coatings fail when prep is skipped
- Since 2006. UAE roof experience across all Emirates
- Maintenance planning. Re-coat schedules for FM teams
Acrylic Waterproofing: frequently asked questions
How long does acrylic roof waterproofing last?
It depends on the specified product and thickness, exposure and maintenance. Acrylic coatings are designed to be maintained by periodic re-coating, following the manufacturer's guidance.
Does a white roof coating really reduce heat?
Yes. Reflective coatings reduce how much solar energy the roof absorbs, lowering surface temperatures and heat flow into the building, especially where roof insulation is limited.
Can acrylic be used on roofs with ponding water?
It isn't recommended. Prolonged standing water can soften acrylic coatings. Ponding should be corrected, or a PU system chosen instead.
Can acrylic go over an old bitumen roof?
Often, with the right primer and if the bitumen is sound and compatible. We test adhesion first.
Written by the ESA Technical Services teamLast updated: